Page Title

NORTHRIDGE MONTESSORI
Excellence in Education

Frequently Asked Questions

1. WHAT IS MONTESSORI?

Montessori is an educational philosophy based on scientific observation of the
development of children pioneered by Dr. Maria Montessori over 100 years ago in Italy.
Education within the Montessori environment provides children the opportunity to
express themselves as individuals. The children explore and learn through discovery at
their own pace under the guidance of specially trained teachers. Materials are set out in
the classroom in the following groupings: Language, Mathematics, Art, Geography,
Science, Sensorial, and Practical Life. Despite such groupings there is constant
integration of these areas as children work through them. The children work
independently and in groups, exploring the materials, with facilitation and guidance from
the teachers. The Montessori environment nurtures independence and fosters the skills
and confidence that children need to succeed in all aspects of their lives

2. WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE MONTESSORI TEACHER?

The role of a Montessori teacher is one of guide and observer, whose ultimate goal is to
intervene less and less as the child develops. The teacher builds an atmosphere of
calm, order and joy in the classroom and encourages the children in all their efforts,
thus promoting self-confidence and discipline. With the younger students at each level,
the teacher is more active, demonstrating the use of materials and presenting activities
based on an assessment of the child's needs. Knowing when to observe and when, and
how much, to intervene is a skill the Montessori teacher develops during a rigorous,
specialized course of training at training centers throughout the world.

3. WHAT DOES NORTHRIDGE MONTESSORI SCHOOL HAVE TO OFFER MY CHILD?

Northridge Montessori School offers a safe, nurturing environment where children can
explore, discover and develop as intelligent, confident and compassionate individuals.
Montessori-trained teachers guide the students through the curriculum which is
augmented with an enriched physical education program and outdoor excursions. We
also offer Music, Art, French, Yoga, a well-stocked library and a before and after school
care program in a bright and modern facility.

4. WHAT IS THE CRITERIA FOR A GOOD STUDENT IN A MONTESSORI
ENVIRONMENT?

With a core philosophy to follow the child, all children can thrive within the Montessori
environment. The easiest progression is through the introduction of the Montessori
approach in preschool.

5. HOW IS NORTHRIDGE MONTESSORI SET APART FROM OTHER PRIVATE
SCHOOLS?

We offer a warm, friendly atmosphere, which feels like an extended family, partly due to
our small size, and partly due to the parent participation and teacher leadership, which
sets the tone of the school. The Montessori educational approach, as well as the
extensive outdoor education and fieldtrips set Northridge Montessori apart from other
private schools.

6. HOW ARE THE CLASSROOMS STRUCTURED?

The Montessori environment provides freedom in a structured environment. The
children must follow certain guidelines and complete certain activities, although they
may do so at their own pace. The children are also able to choose other activities to
study outside the norm. Work is completed individually and in groups under the
guidance of one or more teachers.

7. WHAT ARE THE CREDENTIALS OF TEACHERS AT NORTHRIDGE MONTESSORI
SCHOOL?

Teachers are fully trained & possess a Montessori diploma and/or an E.C.E diploma.
Our staff members possess extensive experience in the field and our head teachers
have been in the field anywhere from 10 years to over 25 years.

8. DOES THE SCHOOL PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION TO & FROM SCHOOL?

Not currently, but this is something that is under consideration and may be provided in
the future on the basis of popular demand